Giants showing interest in a prospect that would divide the fanbase
The New York Giants have been in a whirlwind, seemingly since the end of their playoff run back in January. Starting the offseason with a bang when they signed Daniel Jones and tagged Saquon Barkley, things were looking up. But then the official start of the offseason kicked off Monday, and the team was without […]
The New York Giants have been in a whirlwind, seemingly since the end of their playoff run back in January. Starting the offseason with a bang when they signed Daniel Jones and tagged Saquon Barkley, things were looking up.
But then the official start of the offseason kicked off Monday, and the team was without not only Barkley but star defender Dexter Lawrence as well, with both seeking new contracts.
Then, we just received info that the Giants plan to bring in a quarterback on a pre-draft visit. On one hand that's smart, as the future of the backup position is in question, but when you see the player they chose to bring in, you may be left scratching your head.
Hooker currently sits at 40th on the consensus board, but there is growing optimism that he will be selected in the first round, making the choice to bring him in for a visit even more confusing.
Here is my evaluation of Hooker:
There is a lot to like about the Tenessee signal-caller both physically and mechanically. Hooker has a thick frame with room to add mass and terrific height for the position.
As a passer, Hooker shows a compact release, where he uses his frame to create velocity on multiple drive throws. He displays an effortless flick of the wrist, showing off his arm talent.
His ability to reach all parts of the field is uncanny, with multiple throws from the far hash into the wide part of the field. His problems align with the accuracy of his passes.
Far too often Hooker misses big plays with receivers easily exploiting secondaries for 5-10 yards of separation. Hooker has overthrown multiple touchdowns on a variety of routes including posts, corners, and go routes.
When playing in rhythm, Hooker shows he can slice the seam or drive the ball with accuracy into tight windows. Issues arise when his feet become lazy, as you can watch him stand flat-footed in the pocket, looking for his primary target to out-leverage defensive backs.
A high-level thrower that is a constant threat to move the chains or exploit defenses with his arm velocity, Hooker has many of the tangible aspects desired by NFL teams. In order to truly reach his potential though, he has to work on the details of the position including anticipation, pocket presence and awareness, ball location, and coverage diagnostics.
I have a grade equivalent to a fourth-round pick on Hooker. Meaning, if by some crazy draft miracle he fell that far, I would fully endorse the Giants taking him as insurance for Daniel Jones.
But I know, and they know, that's very likely not going to happen, making the decision to meet with him bewildering. So perhaps the front office is just doing their due diligence, but Daniel Jones and Giants fans may not see it the same way.
